Ghana's President, John Dramani Mahama, has ignited fresh debate at the World Economic Forum by sharply criticising Africa’s continued dependence on exporting raw materials while retaining little of their value. Mahama described the situation as a “triple dependency”, arguing that many African countries remain reliant on external powers not only for security, but also for their health and education systems. At the same time, he noted, the continent continues to supply the world with critical minerals, yet benefits minimally due to limited local processing.

Kenya‑based Economist Patrick Muinde says that while President Mahama may be expressing an uncomfortable truth, several challenges stand in the way of realising the continent’s ambitions. Muinde was speaking to Channel Africa’s Economics Reporter, Innocent Semosa.